It's a common misconception that many medications have a wide range of side effects, while herbal therapy is effective, safe, and free of dangerous side effects. And while this is often true, some plant extracts can be counterproductive! Want to know where the danger lies? Keep reading!
It's a common misconception that many medications have a wide range of side effects, while herbal therapy is effective, safe, and free of dangerous side effects. And while this is often true, some plant extracts can be counterproductive! Want to know where the danger lies? Keep reading!
The Dark Side of Ashwagandha
Indian ginseng, withania somnifera, ashwagandha, sleeping grass. So many names, but one plant. This adaptogen is widely cited for its ability to reduce tissue damage after training, improve sleep, and increase tolerance to mental and physical stress, but every rose has its thorns. Although the active compounds present in this plant—primarily withanolides and withaferin A—affect many aspects of the body's functioning, there is also a dark side to this plant. Indian ginseng is classified as a nightshade—like tomatoes, peppers, and potatoes—which may adversely affect people with Hashimoto's disease. Furthermore, research is inconclusive regarding the effects of this adaptogen on the Th1/Th2 immune system, so caution should be exercised when choosing it. Ashwagandha is also often recommended as an excellent sleep enhancer. And while many people testify that they actually slept like a log after taking the extract in the evening, many others say they were plagued by the worst, exaggerated dreams and nightmares ever.
Turmeric is not the same as curcumin
Curcumin's ability to inhibit cancer cell proliferation is supported by numerous scientific studies and articles published in popular science journals. It also reduces inflammation, improves lipid and glucose metabolism, and influences epigenetic mechanisms controlling gene expression, such as DNA methylation and histone modifications. Lots of cool stuff. There's just one small problem, though: we're talking about the extracted active ingredient CURCUMIN, not the powdered spice TURMERIC, also known as curcuma longa. The latter contains a significant amount of bitter substances, which, with prolonged use or in concentrated doses—can adversely affect liver function, and medical experts have documented cases of hospitalisation due to this.
What's the point of "c'mon cinnamon"
Who among us doesn't indulge in sweet and aromatic memories of cinnamon muffins? Indeed, it must be admitted that this spice pairs perfectly with autumn tea, coffee, and apple pie. It's widely believed that adding cinnamon to sweets improves carbohydrate metabolism, and indeed, it does. Recent studies have even shown that it improves the glucose-to-insulin ratio in overweight and insulin-resistant individuals. This effect is due to the cinnamon extract from CinnulinPF®, which contains type A polymers. It's generally difficult to overdose on cinnamon, although if it's the Chinese version, not the Ceylon variety, its coumarin content can cause liver damage.
As you can see, Paracelsus was right when he said that it's not the substance, but the dose that makes the poison. It's also common to find that not the entire plant is beneficial, but only some of its active compounds.
But are there any plant ingredients worth recommending to everyone, considering the daily challenges we face in our busy 21st-century lives? Absolutely!
Health-Promoting Polyphenols
Polyphenols are bioactive plant compounds that give plants a slightly tart flavour but are associated with a range of health benefits. Polyphenols are antioxidants, which means they exert numerous health-improving effects on the body: anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiatherosclerotic, and blood pressure-lowering effects. Perhaps this is why they are also called phytamines. Therefore, it's worth reaching for products rich in polyphenols to support good health for as long as possible. Research also shows that polyphenols play a crucial role in stimulating the immune system and are even part of the so-called immune triangle—probiotics, prebiotics, and polyphenols. The presence of ingredients such as resveratrol and proanthocyanidins also supports skin health, rejuvenates it, and improves the appearance of tans, making them worth using even in the summer.
The soothing effect of green tea leaves
The revitalisation of body and mind after a cup of green tea is due to the catechins it contains. However, there's a hidden gem that relatively few people know about: L-theanine, extracted from green tea leaves. This compound has an excellent toning effect on the nervous system by increasing alpha brainwave activity, providing an effect beautifully described in English as "wakeful relaxation." This means that L-theanine calms the mind without sedation or drowsiness. At the same time, thinking becomes clearer, and we experience improved mood and reduced perceived stress. We can also benefit from the toning effect of L-theanine after drinking too strong coffee, which is noticeable after just 30 minutes.
As you can see, the BestOne formula includes polyphenols and L-theanine for a reason. The immune system must be assessed holistically, not through a keyhole. At BestLab, we know how important it is to limit the impact of stress on the human body. We also know that when we feel well, we function well. Our goal is to improve your health, well-being and productivity.
